By Adeola Ogunlade
The Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, yesterday inaugurated the newly constructed 1.6-kilometre Lambo Lasunwon Road, in Ikorodu, and officially flags-off the construction of a 40-bed Trauma Hospital Centre at Ikorodu General Hospital.
These projects were facilitated by the Federal Lawmaker representing Ikorodu, Babajimi Benson, as part of efforts to improve road infrastructure and address the growing need for trauma care in the the area.
The road commissioning event, held at Lambo Lasunwon Road opposite LASUTECH First Gate, was attended by traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups, government officials, and LASUTECH students. The crowd expressed their appreciation for Benson’s contributions to the community’s development, acknowledging the significant impact of the new infrastructure.
Dignitaries at the event included former Lagos State Deputy Governor Prince Abiodun Ogunleye, Special Adviser on Rural Development Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, Alhaji Babatunde Tajudeen Rotinwa, and several royal figures such as Oba Kabiru Adewale Shotobi, the Ayangbure of Ikorodu, and Oba Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali, the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo.
In his address, Dr. Hamzat praised Benson for his commitment to Ikorodu’s development, highlighting the improvements in Lagos State’s Road network. “What we are doing here is another example of delivering the dividends of democracy,” Hamzat said.
He further reflected on the state’s infrastructure progress, noting that while only 7% of Lagos’ 1,989 roads were paved in the past, the figure has now risen to 69%, thanks to the efforts of leaders like Rep Jimi Benson.
“Benson is an example of how our party, the APC, identifies and nurtures credible leaders who are focused on delivering tangible results,” the Deputy Governor stated.
He also expressed optimism about the upcoming Hospital Trauma Centre, set to be completed in 2025, which he described as a vital addition to Lagos’ healthcare infrastructure.
The Deputy Governor further pledged the state’s commitment to building a modern secondary school for the Lambo Lasunwon community, as the community promised to provide hectares of land for the project.
Rep. Babajimi Benson, Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, expressed his gratitude for the Deputy Governor’s presence while underscoring the importance of the newly completed road and trauma center projects.
He highlighted the road’s construction as a thoughtful response to the pressing needs of the Ikorodu communities, stating that his approach to solving local issues has been methodical, addressing concerns one step at a time.
Benson, visibly pleased with the strategic location of the road opposite the Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH), proudly announced that this marked the 50th road commissioned out of 54 facilitated projects, symbolizing a strong commitment to community development.
“For decades, this road stood as a reminder of neglect, marred by accidents and challenges. But today, we witness its transformation. The people of Ikorodu now enjoy a well-built road, complete with drainage systems and solar-powered streetlights,” he remarked.
He emphasized that the project represents more than just infrastructure; it is a catalyst for economic growth, unlocking opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses. He added that students from LASUSTECH, who reside in the community, would now benefit from a safer environment, allowing them to focus more on their education.
Benson also revealed that another road, the Asolo/Agbede Olo nla road in Ikorodu West LCDA, is set to be commissioned soon, with additional ongoing projects, including the 13-kilometer Offin/Oreta road, Lawal Animashaun road, Baganju Street, and Ito road in Isiu, Ikorodu North LCDA.
On the construction of the Trauma Centre, said “Normally, the Deputy Governor does commission, not flag-offs. His presence here is to emphasize the importance of these projects and ensure that the contractors deliver the trauma centre on time,” Benson said, adding that centre is expected to be completed within nine months.